There's sad news today about the death of legendary Stax Records bassist Donald "Duck" Dunn. Dunn, age 70, passed away suddenly while on tour in Tokyo, after playing 2 sets at the Blue Note Night Club.
Most here may remember Dunn most for his appearance, with Steve Cropper and other Stax musicians, in the Ayckroyd - Belushi movie "Blues Brothers".
Those of us who were children of the 60's remember him for his stellar work in the legendary Booker T. & the MG's. Their music was the background for many fun summer days blasting from the jukebox at the swimming pool.
Booker T. & the MG's - Green Onions
Dunn played with a variety of musicians from Otis Redding to Sam and Dave to Eric Clapton to Neil Young. The following you tube video linked at his web site gives a quick summation of his astounding musical career:
Wilson Pickett - Midnight Hour
Dunn was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Booker T. & the MG's and also recently received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award.
Guitarist Steve Cropper, who began his first band with Dunn in high school and played alongside him for decades after said
Today I lost my best friend, the world has lost the best guy and bass player to
ever live. Duck Dunn died in his sleep Sunday morning May 13 in Tokyo Japan
after finishing 2 shows at the Blue Note Night Club.
Thanks for all the fun times and great music, Don.
Update: Found the Blues Brothers live video I was searching for - "Soul Man" live at Winterland